Learn how to use the comparative “smarter” and superlative “smartest” with example sentences and differences.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

Comparative adjectives help us to describe how good or bad something is when compared to something else. For example, something is taller than something else. Superlative adjectives help us to describe something as having the most or least of a particular characteristic within a group. This makes it easier and more accurate to talk about and compare things.

What is the comparative form of “smart”?

The comparative form of “smart” is “smarter”.

Example

She is smarter than her classmates.

Example

He solved the puzzle smarter than anyone else.

What is the superlative form of “smart”?

The superlative form of “smart” is “smartest”.

Example

Among all the students, she is the smartest.

Example

The scientist is known for being the smartest person in the room.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with smart, smarter, and smartest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more smart' and 'most smart' are not used because they sound awkward. Instead, smarter and smartest are the correct and preferred forms to use.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

Smart does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: SmartSmarter Superlative: SmartSmartest

Expressions with similar meanings to “smarter”

Used to describe someone who has a higher level of intelligence

Example

The professor is more intelligent than his students.

Used to describe someone who is quick-witted and resourceful

Example

She came up with a cleverer solution to the problem.

Used to indicate someone who has a keen intellect or quick thinking

Example

His sharper mind allowed him to grasp complex concepts easily.

Expressions with similar meanings to “smartest”

Similar to smartest, this emphasizes the highest level of intelligence

Example

The Nobel laureate is considered the most intelligent person in the field.

Used to describe the highest level of quick-wittedness and resourcefulness

Example

Her cleverest idea saved the company from bankruptcy.

Used to indicate the highest level of keen intellect or quick thinking

Example

The detective's sharpest deduction led to the capture of the criminal.

Using than with comparative “smarter”

When using the comparative form smarter to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "She is smarter than her brother." Here, than is used to show that the level of intelligence of 'she' is greater than the level of intelligence of her brother.

How can I use this expression in context?

“smarter” and “smartest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Education

    The top student in the class is always the smartest.

    The top student in the class is always the smartest.

  • 2Problem Solving

    He came up with a smarter solution to the puzzle.

    He came up with a smarter solution to the puzzle.

  • 3Business

    The entrepreneur made smarter decisions that led to the success of the company.

    The entrepreneur made smarter decisions that led to the success of the company.

  • 4Technology

    The new smartphone is smarter than its predecessor.

    The new smartphone is smarter than its predecessor.

  • 5Conversation

    She always has the smartest comebacks in any argument.

    She always has the smartest comebacks in any argument.

Related idioms and phrases

A smart cookie

Used to describe someone who is intelligent or clever.

Example

She figured out the solution to the problem easily. She's a smart cookie.

Smart as a whip

Used to describe someone who is very intelligent or quick-witted.

Example

He always has a witty response. He's smart as a whip.

Street smart

Used to describe someone who has practical knowledge and common sense.

Example

She grew up in a tough neighborhood and is street smart.

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